"I really love the whole creative process -- from finding an idea, to writing a song about it, working it up in the studio with some of the best musicians in the world and then watching the reaction of a live audience to the finished product. There's always an idea for a song drifting around out there somewhere just waiting to be written," he says.
Prior to moving to Nashville from Rocky Mount, Virginia, Russ garnered numerous accolades in his home state including regional winner in the Wrangler Country Showdown, first runner-up in the Marlboro Talent Competition and a nomination for Male Vocalist of the Year by the Virginia Country Music Association.
Since moving to Nashville, Roberts has developed a reputation as one of Music Row's most talented singer/songwriters, performing frequently at the Bluebird Café, Douglas Corner, The Broken Spoke, Gibson Bluegrass Cafe and other venues. He's co-written songs with many of Nashville's top writers as well as penning tunes solo, and has racked up several cuts. He's had songs recorded by Jack Greene, Bryan Austin, Susan Jacks and most recently had a song in the hit movie "Varsity Blues." Just as adept at singing as he is writing, his distinct voice has caught the attention of numerous people on Music Row, and many producers and songwriters use Russ for jingles and demo sessions.
His performing experience isn't limited to the Nashville circuit, he's traveled extensively -- opening for a variety of acts including The Judds, Tanya Tucker and Charlie Daniels. He's appeared at venues all across the United States and Canada including the Bob Hope Montagne Center, The Aladdin Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and the World's Fair in Vancouver, BC and also in television and radio commercials. Whether it's small intimate group at a café or a crowd of ten thousand, Russ has the gift to make each person feel like they're the only one he's singing to.
"There is nothing quite like reaching out to touch people with your music," Russ says of the lure of live performances. "There's a magic that happens that's like nothing else." When asked what keeps him committed to pursuing a career in entertainment, Russ replies, "I believe everyone has a calling in life and I really believe this is mine. And when you find what you were put here to do, no matter what it is, hard or easy, it becomes a real joy and doesn't seem like work at all."